Bar Council expands support for mature students and career changers

28 May 2015

The Bar Council is expanding its support for mature
students and those wishing to change careers with the launch of a
new careers information session.

The Bar Council receives high volumes of enquiries
from people from a wide spectrum of society looking for advice on
how to be become a barrister, many of whom have specialist
knowledge, which supports a second career at the Bar.

The career event, which takes place on 22 June,
will outline the different routes into, and the qualifications
required, to enter the legal profession. It aims to provide a real
insight into life as a legal practitioner for the more experienced
candidates and will include application tips, interview skills and
ways to boost employability.

A panel session with current pupils and junior
barristers will be held later in the evening, followed by a speed
networking session with a variety of chambers, where attendees will
be able to meet practitioners and learn more about their
experiences in the legal profession.

Alistair MacDonald QC, Chairman of the
Bar, said:

"Statistically, individuals who have experience in
other areas outside of law have performed well at the Bar and built
successful practices drawing on these previous skills. For example,
those with a medical background can specialise in medical
negligence. Similarly, former IT or business professionals can
specialise in intellectual property. They are not limited to
fields in which their previous work is directly relevant,
however. Their general experience of life, and what makes
people tick, make them excellent candidates for a second career in
law.

"Choosing to become a barrister opens up the
possibility of embarking upon one of the most dynamic and
challenging careers available. A modern and credible legal
profession must be diverse, as well as inclusive, if it is to
represent its clients from all parts of society.

"We hope this event will provide prospective
barristers with the information needed to help them decide whether
or not a career at the Bar is the right path for them."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. Further information is available from the Bar Council Press
Office on 020 7222 2525 and Press@BarCouncil.org.uk.

2. More information on the Career Day for Mature Students
and Career Changers can be viewed here.